Da & De Names

Da & De Names
The Da- and De- prefixes are French in origin — they mean "son of" — but have come to represent a now-faded trend in African American naming. Most Da and De names peaked in the 1990s, making them characteristically Millennial names. They were particularly popular among baby boys, and Deandre was the highest ranking of them all.

Along with Deandre, other Da and De names currently in the US Top 1000 include Demetrius, Damari, Dakari, and D'Angelo. At the height of their fashion, in the mid- '90s, Deshawn, Davonte, Demario, and Dequan were common as well.

Our list encompasses names that use Da and De (and D) as a singular syllable. Many of these names are modern interpretations of classic names, and others are combinations of stylish syllables.

Da and De names are no longer as hot as they used to be (they're more likely to be worn by moms and dads!) but you may still find inspiration on this list. Search our collection of Da and De names for babies below.
  1. Demetrius
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "follower of Demeter"
    • Description:

      Classical and Shakespearean name that may appeal if you like your names long, flowing and multicultural.
  2. Dequan
    • Description:

      Dequan appears to be a modern constructed name that emerged in the United States in the late 20th century, particularly gaining usage in the 1980s and 1990s. The prefix 'De-' is a common element in many names, possibly derived from French or Latin origins meaning 'of' or 'from.' The 'quan' element might relate to names like Quentin (from Latin 'quintus' meaning 'fifth') or could be inspired by Asian naming elements (like Chinese 'quan' meaning 'power' or 'strength'). However, its specific etymology is unclear. Dequan represents contemporary naming patterns that favor distinctive sounds and unique combinations. Usage records show the name has been consistently given in various regions of the United States. The name exemplifies creative modern naming practices that often combine familiar phonetic elements to create new and distinctive identities.
  3. Deandre
    • Origin:

      Modern invented name
    • Meaning:

      "son of Andre"
    • Description:

      A popular choice amongst the African American naming community in the 90s, Deandre has been falling out of style in favor of more contemporary choices.
  4. Dakari
    • Origin:

      African
    • Meaning:

      "rejoice"
    • Description:

      This name from the Shona language is a new entrant to the Top 1000 in the US.
  5. Deangelo
    • Origin:

      Italian
    • Meaning:

      "from the angel"
    • Description:

      This name obviously has the prefix De- that denotes "son of"—in this form it can mean either "son of Angelo" or "from the angel."
  6. Delinda
    • Description:

      Delinda is a feminine name with Latin origins, possibly derived from 'linda' meaning 'beautiful' with the prefix 'de' adding emphasis. The name has been in sporadic use in the United States since the mid-20th century, though it has never been particularly common. Delinda gained some modest recognition through the character Delinda Deline in the TV series 'Las Vegas' which aired in the early 2000s. The name carries a melodious quality and vintage charm that appeals to parents seeking something uncommon yet recognizable. Delinda may also be related to classical mythological names or variations of Melinda or Belinda.

  7. Demitra
    • Description:

      Demitra is a feminine name of Greek origin, representing a variant form of Demeter or Demetra. It derives from the name of the Greek goddess Demeter, who presided over the harvest, fertility, and sacred law. The name literally means 'earth mother' or 'mother goddess,' combining 'ge' (earth) and 'meter' (mother). Demitra carries the powerful associations of nurturing, abundance, and the cycle of seasons inherent in the goddess's mythology. While less common than the variant Demetra or the masculine Dimitri, Demitra offers a distinctive option that maintains clear Greek cultural connections. The name has a rhythmic, melodious quality with its three syllables and conveys both strength and feminine grace.

  8. Damari
    • Origin:

      Variation of Amari
    • Description:

      Damari is thought to be a variation of the popular trans-cultural name Amari with the Da- prefix. Amari means "eternal" in Hebrew and may mean "strength" in Yoruba, though other sources list the African meaning as unknown.
  9. Denisha
    • Origin:

      American variation of Denise, French from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "god of Nysa"
    • Description:

      Typical of formula that takes a traditional name syllable and adds -isha ending.
  10. Daleah
    • Description:

      Daleah is a feminine name that blends natural imagery with melodic sounds. It may be derived from 'dale,' meaning valley, combined with the feminine suffix '-ah' or a variation of names like Dalila or Dalia. This modern creation has Hebrew and Old English influences, suggesting a connection to both nature and gentle beauty. While relatively uncommon in popularity rankings, Daleah has gained modest recognition in recent decades as parents seek unique yet accessible names. Its pleasant rhythm and straightforward pronunciation make it appealing despite its rarity. The name evokes images of peaceful landscapes and carries a subtle elegance. Daleah remains an under-the-radar choice that offers individuality without complexity.
  11. Dametrius
    • Description:

      Dametrius is a masculine name that appears to be a variant spelling of Demetrius, which has ancient Greek origins. The classical Demetrius derives from Demeter, the Greek goddess of agriculture and fertility. The spelling with 'a' rather than 'e' emerged primarily in the United States in the latter half of the 20th century, reflecting the trend toward creating distinctive versions of traditional names. The name Demetrius itself has a long history, being borne by several historical figures including kings of Macedonia and early Christian saints. The variant Dametrius maintains the strong classical associations while establishing a unique identity. Though less common than Demetrius, Dametrius has maintained a consistent presence in naming records since its emergence, appealing to parents seeking names with historical depth but contemporary styling.
  12. Demari
    • Description:

      Demari is a modern unisex name with multiple possible origins, though it's more commonly used for boys. It may be a variation of Damari, which has Hebrew roots meaning 'palm tree,' symbolizing strength and victory. Alternatively, it could be derived from African origins or represent a creative combination of elements from other names like Demarco or Demario. The name has a musical quality with its balanced syllables and smooth pronunciation. Demari began gaining modest recognition in the United States during the 1990s and has gradually increased in usage since then, though it remains relatively uncommon. The name carries a contemporary feel while avoiding trendy patterns, giving it longevity potential. Parents might be drawn to Demari for its distinctive sound, cross-cultural appeal, and the balance it strikes between uniqueness and accessibility. The name also works well across diverse cultural backgrounds.

  13. Davonte
    • Description:

      Davonte is a modern masculine name that appears to be a variation of names like Davon, Donte, or Devon, with the Italian suffix '-te' added. The name likely derives from combinations of elements from names like David (Hebrew for 'beloved') and possibly Lamont or Donte. Davonte gained moderate popularity in the United States primarily during the 1990s and early 2000s. Usage data shows it reached its peak around 2000-2005 before gradually declining in frequency. The name has been used across diverse communities in the United States, though usage statistics show regional variations in popularity. Davonte represents the modern trend of creating distinctive names through creative spelling variations and combinations of established name elements.
  14. Deshan
    • Origin:

      Hindi
    • Meaning:

      "of the nation"
    • Description:

      Attractive Indian name unfamiliar to most Western parents.
  15. Deandra
    • Origin:

      English combination of Diana and Alexandra, feminization of Deandre
    • Meaning:

      "divine defender of man; strong and manly"
    • Description:

      An alternative spelling to Diandra or a feminine form Deandre, Deandra is a compound name that briefly featured in the US Top 1000 in the 80s.
  16. Deonte
    • Description:

      Deonte appears to be a modern American name that emerged in the latter half of the 20th century. The name likely combines the popular prefix 'De-' (found in many names like Deon, Deandre, and Devon) with elements possibly inspired by names like Dante or Monte. The 'De-' prefix may derive from French or Latin origins meaning 'of' or 'from.' Usage records show Deonte gaining recognition in the United States primarily in the 1980s and 1990s, with continued but declining usage into the 21st century. The name represents the trend of distinctive prefix-modified names and creative combinations that became established in American naming patterns during this period. While not among the most common names, it has maintained consistent usage in various communities across the United States since its emergence.
  17. Dakira
    • Origin:

      American invented name, meaning unknown
    • Description:

      Like cousin Shakira, captivating and evocative.
  18. Denita
    • Description:

      Denita is a feminine name with several possible origins. It may be a diminutive form of Dena or Diana, the latter derived from the Roman goddess of the moon and hunting. Alternatively, it could be related to Dennis, ultimately from the Greek name Dionysios, referring to the god Dionysus. In some cases, Denita might be a variation of Juanita or a creative modern invention. The name has a soft, melodic quality with its flowing vowel sounds. Denita gained modest popularity in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s but remains relatively uncommon today. Its appeal lies in its gentle sound and feminine quality while being distinctive enough to stand out without seeming bizarre or difficult to pronounce.
  19. Dakaria
    • Description:

      Dakaria is a contemporary feminine name with a melodic quality. While its exact origins are unclear, it may be a modern variant of names like Dakota or Zakaria, or possibly a newly created name blending elements from different naming traditions. The name has a musical flow with its alternating consonants and vowels, giving it an elegant and distinctive sound. Dakaria likely emerged within the last few decades as part of the trend toward unique names with appealing rhythms. Though relatively uncommon, it appeals to parents seeking distinctive names that still feel accessible and pronounceable. The name conveys a sense of uniqueness and modernity while maintaining a feminine quality that works well in diverse cultural contexts.

  20. Dewayne
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "dark, black"
    • Description:

      Dewayne is a masculine name that gained popularity primarily in the United States during the mid-20th century. It's a variant spelling of Duane, which derives from the Irish surname Ó Dubháin, meaning "descendant of Dubhán" (where Dubhán comes from "dubh" meaning "dark" or "black").